Day 1 Brenner to Bolzano 61 Miles

“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.”

John F. Kennedy

To see Brenner to Bolzano route - click on link Interactive map (can select day on left)

Day 1 - intrepid and optimistic cyclists ready for anything

Supported by an onlooking gnome.

We were driven by coach from Munich to the Italian border to meet our bikes

We followed a dedicated cycle/pedestrian track down the Brenner pass.

A tree blocking our way.

Fabulous views with medieval buildings at every turn.

The Brenner Pass was named after a farm that it originally passed by. It is the principle mountain pass that links Austria and Italy.

The route the pass follows has been in use since the second century; the Romans used it as their main route north.

Our route took us through numerous hill villages with a distinct Austrian feel.

Not surprising as it was Austrian up until 1918. 

Time for a quick coffee.

German is the main language in this area with signs in both German and Italian.

We descend into Bolzano.

View from our room